Make PERFECT Hard Boiled and Soft Boiled Eggs in the Instant Pot

Do you have an Instant Pot and don’t know where to start? I am still getting the hang of it, but I’ve mastered how to make PERFECT hard-boiled and soft-boiled eggs in the Instant Pot.

Disclosure: This post was sponsored by the American Egg Board and the Egg Nutrition Center. Thank you for supporting the brands that make this blog possible!

instant pot hard boiled eggs on a gray plate next to egg carton and shells

What Can the Instant Pot Do?

215,000+ Amazon customers purchased the Instant Pot on Prime Day alone. Now that it’s in everyone’s kitchen they are looking for new recipes to try.

The Instant Pot is a single appliance that does the job of seven (yes, seven!) different kitchen appliances. It can handle the tasks of a slow cooker, electric pressure cooker, rice cooker, steamer, yogurt maker, sauté/browning pan, and a warming pot. Think of all those appliances taking up space in your kitchen that can be replaced by one.

New to using the Instant Pot? Learn about these seven tips for efficiently using your Instant Pot.

While I am still learning all the functions of the Instant Pot, the first technique I mastered was preparing hard and soft-boiled eggs.

infographic for cooking eggs in the instant pot

How Are Eggs Healthy?

One large egg has 6 grams of high-quality protein and all 9 essential amino acids. Nearly half the protein is in the yolk so don’t ditch the yolk!

Eggs were once avoided and criticized for their cholesterol content. However, the totality of scientific research has shown no or little effect between dietary cholesterol and cardiac outcomes or markers of heart disease risk in healthy individuals.

Government and health organizations have revised their dietary cholesterol recommendations. The 2015-2020 Dietary Guidelines for Americans place no daily limit on dietary cholesterol intake. Foods like egg yolks and some shellfish are higher in dietary cholesterol but not saturated fats making them a healthful choice along with healthy eating patterns.

Hard-boiled eggs are something I pretty much meal prep every week for myself. One large egg has varying amounts of 13 essential vitamins and minerals, including choline plus the antioxidants lutein and zeaxanthin, all just for 70 calories.

three hard boiled instant pot eggs on a gray plate next to the shells

Why the Instant Pot method works:

Now, I know making hard-boiled eggs on the stovetop is not too challenging, but this Instant Pot method makes it even simpler and in just 5 minutes, they are ready. Plus, there is a science behind why cooking eggs in the Instant Pot make them easier to peel. The reason according to Alton Brown is:

“Eggs that are quickly heated are easier to peel than eggs that are slowly heated, say in cold water brought to a boil. Fast cooking prevents the white from bonding so epoxy-like to the outer membranes. Since pressure steamers can generate temperatures between 230 and 250 degrees F it is suspected that this is actually why folks think they’re magic egg machines.” Also, thorough cooling eases peeling by allowing the proteins in the albumen to fully set and harden, thus preventing tearing.

instant pot sitting next to gray striped towel

How to Make Soft Boiled Eggs in the Instant Pot

Pour the water in and place the rack (trivet) in the bottom. Then sit the eggs on the rack in the Instant Pot in a single layer.

Cook for 3 minutes on high pressure. Once the timer goes off, quickly release the pressure.

Transfer the eggs to a bowl with ice and cold water until they are cool enough to hold in your hand.

Peel right away.

The Best Pressure Cooker Hard Boiled Eggs

If you want to make hard boiled eggs in the Instant Pot, pour the water in. Set the rack in the bottom. Place the eggs on the rack. Cook for 5 minutes using high pressure. Let the pressure release naturally for 5 minutes, then transfer to an ice bath. Peel once they are cool enough for you to hold.

Tips for Making

  • Make sure the eggs are in a single layer, do not stack them.
  • There is an accessory you can buy that is specifically for making eggs in the Instant Pot that may allow you to cook more at a time.
  • When you release the pressure, place a towel over the top. Also make sure the pressure cooker is away from cabinets so the steam doesn’t ruin them.

How Long Do Cooked Eggs Last?

Hard-Boiled Eggs will keep up to a week in your refrigerator. Make a few perfect hard-boiled eggs to create delicious recipes throughout the week.

cobb salad topped with hard boiled eggs made in the pressure cooker

A few ways I use hard-boiled eggs are:

  • Pair hard-boiled eggs with avocado and tomato. I usually just add a little salt and pepper, but when I’m looking to add an extra pop of flavor, I add everything but the bagel, sesame seasoning blend.
  • For a filling snack, try my version of a “quick deviled egg”. Scoop out the yolk, mix with hummus and fill back in the egg white.

Ways to Use Instant Pot Eggs

(source)

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hard boiled eggs on a gray plate

Make PERFECT Hard Boiled and Soft Boiled Eggs in the Instant Pot

  • Author: Chef Julie Harrington, RD
  • Prep Time: 3
  • Cook Time: 5
  • Total Time: 8 minutes
  • Yield: 5
  • Method: Instant Pot

Description

Make PERFECT Hard Boiled and Soft Boiled Eggs in the Instant Pot EVERY. SINGLE. TIME.


Ingredients

Scale

Ingredients:
Eggs (up to as many that can fit in an even layer in your Instant Pot – do not stack)
1 cup water

Equipment:
Instant Pot with the rack


Instructions

Place the rack in the bottom of the pot. Pour the water in the pot. Place the eggs on the rack.

For soft-boiled:
Set Instant pot on high pressure on manual 3 minutes. Quick release placing a towel over the valve. Quickly add eggs to a bowl with cold water and ice until cool enough to hold. Peel right away.

For hard-boiled:
Set Instant Pot on high pressure on manual 5 minutes. Natural release 5 minutes then use quick release placing a towel over the valve. Quickly add eggs to a bowl with cold water and ice until cool enough to hold. Peel right away.


Keywords: eggs, instant pot, meal prep

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Make PERFECT Hard Boiled and Soft Boiled Eggs in the Instant Pot #instantpot #protein #cookingtip #healthy #breakfast #snack #eggs
Make PERFECT Hard Boiled and Soft Boiled Eggs in the Instant Pot #instantpot #protein #cookingtip #healthy #breakfast #snack #eggs

Pear Walnut Muffins

Enjoy as part of breakfast or alone as a snack. These Pear Walnut Muffins are simple to make with big flavor.

Pear walnut muffins stacked on top of each other
pear walnut muffins stacked on top of each other on a cooling rack

How to know if a pear is ripe

Remember to “check the neck”. Pears are one of the few fruits that don’t ripen on the tree. Pears are harvested when they reach maturity, and when left at room temperature pears slowly ripen from the inside out.

Apply gentle pressure to the neck of the pear with your thumb. If it yields to pressure, it’s ripe.

What’s different about green anjou pears?

Anjou pears have a more egg shape appearance. Their dense flesh holds up well in heated applications like baking, poaching, roasting, or grilling and they are delicious when sliced fresh in salads or eaten as an out-of-hand snack.

pear walnut muffin cut in half on a white plate

How to make Pear Walnut Muffins

The recipe for these pear walnut muffins is pretty much a straight forward muffin recipe.

  1. Pour wet ingredients into dry ingredients.
  2. Fold in mix-ins.
  3. Bake!

Recipe Notes:

Why sift flour?

Sifted flour is much lighter than unsifted flour and easier to mix into other ingredients when forming a cake or muffin batter. When flour is sifted with other dry ingredients, it helps combine them evenly before they are mixed with other ingredients.

Be mindful of the size.

When chopping ingredients to mix into the batter, be mindful of the size. Chop ingredients in an even size. For the pears in this recipe, think about each bite of the muffin – big enough to note the taste and texture but not too big that it takes over.

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Pear walnut muffins stacked on top of each other

Pear Walnut Muffins

  • Author: Chef Julie Harrington, RD
  • Prep Time: 15
  • Cook Time: 20
  • Total Time: 35 minutes
  • Yield: 10
  • Category: muffin
  • Method: baking

Description

These pear walnut muffins are the perfect addition to a breakfast or enjoy alone as a snack. Learn baking tips to create perfect muffins every time!


Ingredients

1 large ripe pear peeled, cored and diced (preferably d’Anjou)
1 teaspoon cinnamon
1 tablespoon packed brown sugar
1 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
1/4 teaspoon salt
1 1/4 teaspoons baking powder
1/8 teaspoon baking soda
1/3 cup granulated sugar
1 large egg
1/2 cup full-fat Greek yogurt
1/4 cup apple cider
1/4 cup unsalted butter melted and cooled slightly
1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
¾ cup chopped walnuts

Optional topping:
coconut sugar or coarse sugar
chopped walnuts


Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 400 degrees F.  Grease a muffin tin with cooking spray. Set aside.
  2. In a small bowl, mix together diced pears, cinnamon, and brown sugar. Set aside.
  3. In a large mixing bowl sift together flour, salt, baking powder, baking soda, and granulated sugar. Make a well in the center of the dry ingredients. 
  4. In a medium mixing bowl whisk together the egg, Greek yogurt, apple cider, butter, and vanilla, until smooth. 
  5. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients. Gently fold together until the dry ingredients are just moistened.
  6. Add the walnuts and pear mixture and any accumulated juice to the batter. Gently fold with a spatula until the pecans and pears are incorporated.
  7. Divide the batter between the muffin wells. Sprinkle the tops of the muffins generously with coconut sugar and chopped walnuts. Allow the muffins to rest for 10 to 15 minutes before baking.
  8. Bake for 15 to 20 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out with no wet batter.
  9. Cool the muffins in the pan for 10 minutes, then remove to a wire rack to cool completely.

Notes

Why sift flour? Sifted flour is much lighter than unsifted flour and easier to mix into other ingredients when forming a cake or muffin batter. When flour is sifted with other dry ingredients, it helps combine them evenly before they are mixed with other ingredients.

Keywords: pear, walnut, muffins, baked goods, baking

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How to freeze muffins and prevent freezer burn

Cool muffins completely before wrapping and freezing. To freeze, wrap securely in foil or freezer wrap, or place in freezer bags. Be sure to remove as much excess air within the bag as possible. Muffins can be stored frozen for up to 3 months.

Edamame Avocado Hummus

Move over chickpea hummus. There’s a new hummus in town – Edamame Avocado Hummus. 

Edamame Avocado Hummus ingredients in a food processor

I recently did a presentation about smart snacking. One thing I like to mention about smart snacking is to opt for real food first. Snacking is an opportunity for nourishment. 

Yes, grabbing a bar is quick (some bars do pack in great nutritional value), but really think about your snacks throughout the day. How many of them are real food vs. processed foods?

Edamame Avocado Hummus in a small white bowl

I’ve been challenging myself to include more veggies into my snacks. I go through snacking phases, and raw veggies have fallen out of my routine a little bit.

Snacking is more fun when you are dunking. I love dunking my veggies into hummus, but I decided to switch it up a bit and use edamame as the base instead of chickpeas. Edamame, a plant-based protein is a young soybean that has been harvested before the beans have had a chance to harden.

Edamame Avocado Hummus in a white bowl with carrots and crackers

Adding avocado to the edamame helps make this dip creamy. Avocados can act as a booster to help your body absorb fat-soluble nutrients from the foods eaten with them, like vitamin A. Vitamin A foods, like carrots, contain carotenoids, which not only promote healthy skin but benefit the heart and immune system as well. This vitamin is a potent antioxidant that protects the skin from free radicals. So, pair carrot sticks with this delicious dip!

carrot being dunked into green dip
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Edamame Avocado Hummus in a white bowl

Edamame Avocado Hummus

  • Author: Chef Julie Harrington, RD
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Total Time: 10 minutes
  • Yield: 8
  • Category: dip
  • Method: no-cook

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 cup frozen shelled edamame, thawed
  • 1/2 large avocado
  • 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon tahini
  • 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1/8 teaspoon ground pepper
  • pinch of salt
  • 2 tbsp avocado oil (can sub olive oil)

Instructions

  1. Add edamame, avocado, lemon juice, garlic, tahini, onion powder, pepper and salt in a food processor. Pulse for 30 seconds and scrape down sides.
  2. Slowly drizzle in oil while motor is running and pulse until reach desired consistency.

Keywords: hummus, avocado, edamame, dip

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Peanut Butter Oat Bars

These Peanut Butter Oat Bars are soft, chewy, and subtly sweet to add to a balanced breakfast or enjoyed as a snack.

homemade oat bars on a black slate

Dear future children, please do not have a peanut allergy. Your future peanut butter addict’s mom will be very sad. Peanut butter is a staple food in my diet. I can confidently say I enjoy peanut butter pretty much every day.

Did you know?

It takes about 540 peanuts to make a 12-ounce jar of peanut butter. (source)

Health benefits of peanut butter

Replacing saturated fat with similar amounts of unsaturated fats may reduce the risk of heart disease. One serving of dry-roasted peanuts (30 grams) contains 12 grams of unsaturated fat, only two grams of saturated fat, and no trans fat. 

Peanuts are an excellent source of (20% of the Daily Value):

  • Niacin: Niacin is an important B vitamin that helps to convert food to energy, aids with the digestive and nervous system, and helps the skin.
  • Manganese: Manganese is important for processing cholesterol, and nutrients like carbohydrates and protein.
    (source)
homemade snack bars on a black marble slab

Just one bowl, these bars are easy to whip up. Pair with a piece of fruit and/or yogurt for breakfast, or enjoy alone as a snack. If you are peanut butter obsessed like me, I even added a smear of peanut butter on top.

Peanut Butter Oat Bars stacked on top of each other

I kept this Peanut Butter Oat Bars recipe simple, but of course, you can add your own twist. Stir in chocolate chips, some nuts or seeds. I’m even curious to try tahini in place of the peanut butter.

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Peanut Butter Oat Bars

  • Author: Chef Julie Harrington, RD
  • Prep Time: 15
  • Cook Time: 30
  • Total Time: 45 minutes
  • Yield: 8
  • Category: Baked Good
  • Method: Baking

Description

These Peanut Butter Oat Bars are soft, chewy, and subtly sweet to add to a balanced breakfast or enjoyed as a snack.


Ingredients

Scale

1/2 cup natural peanut butter, melted
1/2 cup coconut oil, melted
1 small ripe banana, mashed
1/4 cup maple syrup
2 eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1 1/2 cups rolled oats
1/2 cup finely ground flaxseed (see notes)


Instructions

  1. Preheat the oven to 350°F. Coat an 8×8 baking pan with cooking spray and set aside.
  2. In a large bowl, whisk together peanut butter, coconut oil, banana, maple syrup, eggs, and vanilla extract until well combined.
  3. Stir in cinnamon, rolled oats, and flaxseed, until well combined.
  4. Pour into the prepared baking dish and spread in an even layer. Bake for 25-30 minutes until edges are lightly browned and a toothpick inserted in the middle comes out clean.
  5. Cool for 15 minutes before slicing into squares. 

Notes

I used Manitoba Milling Co. Smooth Whole-Milled Flaxseed, which is more of a powdery/flour texture. 

Add chocolate chips or nuts, sprinkled on top or folded into the batter, as desired.

Keywords: peanut butter, oats, bars, breakfast, snack, whole grain,

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Pumpkin Pie Bites

Do you ever have something on your to-do list that just keeps getting rolled over every time to a new to-do list? Welp. That’s posting this Pumpkin Pie Bites recipe. Sorry for holding out on you.

bite taken out of an energy bite

I know I am often the minority when it comes to the love of my paper planner. (Passion Planner to be exact) For the month of January, the pages are completely filled with meetings, cooking classes, presentations, parties, etc. I’m one of those people who likes being busy, but sometimes things fall through the cracks, like posting this recipe which has been sitting in draft for the past two weeks. #sorryivebeenbusy

bite taken out of a pumpkin pie bite

A version of this recipe was developed with one of my awesome JWU interns. I have a sweet spot for JWU interns and I am a JWU alum myself. I love spending days in the kitchen as a full “test kitchen” days. It’s been fun working with JWU interns because we speak the same “culinary language”. This recipe was tested a few times until the texture and taste came out just right.

energy bites in a white bowl on a stone slab

Batch cook these little energy bites for the week. They are the perfect on-the-go snack. Who says pumpkin season is over? Let’s keep the pumpkin around all year round!

bowl of pumpkin pie bites
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Pumpkin Pie Bites

  • Author: Chef Julie Harrington, RD
  • Prep Time: 10
  • Total Time: 10 minutes
  • Yield: 8 servings (2 bites per serving) 1x
  • Category: snack, dessert
  • Method: no-cook

Description

Batch cook these bites for an energy-boosting snack during the day!


Ingredients

Scale
  • 1/4 cup Medjool dates, pitted
  • boiling water, as needed
  • 1/4 cup almond butter
  • 1/4 cup pumpkin puree
  • 2 teaspoons maple syrup
  • 1  1/2 teaspoons pumpkin pie spice (or a mix of 1/2 tsp ginger, 1/2 tsp nutmeg, 1 tsp cinnamon)
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 2 tablespoon coconut flour*
  • 1  1/2 cup oats
  • 1/2 cup mini chocolate chips

Instructions

  1. Soak the dates in boiling water for 10 minutes. Drain.
  2. Combine all ingredients, except for the chocolate chips, in a food processor. Process until fairly smooth, stopping occasionally to scrape down the sides.
  3. Transfer to a separate bowl and fold in chocolate chips. Chill in the fridge for at least 20 minutes.
  4. Once chilled, scoop 1-tablespoon sized portions and roll into balls. The mixture makes about 16 bites. Store in the refrigerator in an airtight container.

Notes

If the dough is too sticky, pulse in additional coconut flour, 1/2 teaspoon at a time. 

Keywords: pumpkin, pumpkin pie, energy bites, snack,

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Layered Chocolate Pomegranate Chia Pudding

Not one, but two layers of delicious chia pudding. Have you ever tried using pomegranate juice to thicken your chia pudding? You will now because I know you’ll want to try this Layered Chocolate Pomegranate Chia Pudding.
ad: Layered Chocolate Pomegranate via RDelicious Kitchen @RD_Kitchen #chia #pomegranate #chocolate #mealprep
By posting this recipe I am entering a recipe contest sponsored by POM Wonderful and am eligible to win prizes associated with the contest. I was not compensated for my time.
Do you ever go through food phases? Chia pudding has been on constant repeat for me these past few weeks. I love that it’s easy to meal prep in advance for a quick (and satisfying) breakfast in the morning.

Learn how to (easily) seed a pomegranate!

Plus, chia pudding is easy to customize with various flavors. Another food phase I’ve been into is pomegranates. It definitely helps that they are in season right now, so I am grabbing one every time I am at the grocery store.
ad: Layered Chocolate Pomegranate via RDelicious Kitchen @RD_Kitchen #chia #pomegranate #chocolate #mealprep
When fresh pomegranates aren’t in season, I can still get my pomegranate fix with POM Wonderful 100% Juice.

POM Wonderful 100% Juice is powered by antioxidants. The pomegranate is whole-pressed, meaning a unique blend of polyphenol antioxidants from two whole pomegranates – including its fruit, pith, and rind – is found in each 8 oz bottle.
You can usually always find a bottle of POM Wonderful 100% Juice in my refrigerator. I love adding a splash of pomegranate juice to sparkling water for a fun fizzy drink.
ad: Layered Chocolate Pomegranate via RDelicious Kitchen @RD_Kitchen #chia #pomegranate #chocolate #mealprep
I had fun partnering with POM Wonderful 100% Juice and The Recipe ReDux to create a recipe using pomegranate juice. With my current chia pudding food phase, this was the first idea that popped into my head. I’ve always made chia pudding with milk or non-dairy milk as the liquid, so I wanted to see if POM Wonderful 100% Juice would yield the same kind of pudding-like consistency.
It did! I wouldn’t be posting this recipe if it didn’t 😛

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pomegranate chia pudding in a small glass jar

Layered Chocolate Pomegranate Chia Pudding

  • Author: Chef Julie Harrington, RD
  • Prep Time: 8
  • Total Time: 8 minutes
  • Yield: 4

Description

Not one, but two layers of delicious chia pudding. Have you ever tried using pomegranate juice to thicken your chia pudding? You will now because I know you’ll want to try this Layered Chocolate Pomegranate Chia Pudding.


Ingredients

Scale
  • Chocolate layer:

  • 1/4 cups chia seeds
  • 2 tablespoons Greek yogurt
  • 1/2 cup milk (or non-dairy milk)
  • 1 tablespoon maple syrup
  • 2 tablespoons cocoa powder
  • Pomegranate layer:

  • 1/4 cup chia seeds
  • 2 tablespoons Greek yogurt
  • 1/2 cup POM Wonderful 100% Pomegranate Juice
  • (Optional) toppings: mini chocolate chips. pomegranate arils

Instructions

  1. Chocolate layer: In a small bowl, whisk together chia seeds, yogurt, milk, maple syrup, and cocoa powder. Cover and transfer to the refrigerate for 1 hour.
  2. Pomegranate layer: In a small bowl, whisk together chia seeds, yogurt, and POM Wonderful 100% Pomegranate Juice. Cover and transfer to the refrigerate for 1 hour.
  3. Assembly: Remove the chia puddings from the refrigerator. In 4 separate serving cups or containers, and 1/2 cup chocolate pudding to each cup. Add 1/2 cup pomegranate pudding on top to each cup. Top with mini chocolate chips and pomegranate arils, if desired.

Keywords: chia pudding

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Chef Julie Harrington, RD - Culinary Nutrition Consultant of chefjulierd.com

Be sure to also check out the other pomegranate-inspired recipes from fellow dietitians and food bloggers in this Recipe ReDux link-up. It’s the first and only recipe challenge founded by registered dietitians. Enjoy!

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DIY Chex Party Mix

Spread the holiday cheer by sharing this DIY Chex Party Mix.
DIY Chex Party Mix via RDelicious Kitchen @RD_Kitchen #chex #chexmix #cereal #snack #savory #DIY #gift #DIYgift #appetizer
“The best way to spread Christmas cheer is singing loud for all to hear” .. name that movie!
Another great way to spread Christmas cheer is sharing a fun little snack with those around you this holiday season.

General Mills kindly sent me a care package to create Chex party mix to spread the holiday cheer. Look how adorable this personalized wooden spoon is!
DIY Chex Party Mix via RDelicious Kitchen @RD_Kitchen #chex #chexmix #cereal #snack #savory #DIY #gift #DIYgift #appetizer
Last month, I had a wonderful opportunity to spend a couple days at the General Mills headquarters learning all about General Mills and the Bell Institute of health, nutrition, and food safety.
General Mills and the Bell Institute of health, nutrition, and food safety truly stand behind their mission statement – serving the world by making food people love.
DIY Chex Party Mix via RDelicious Kitchen @RD_Kitchen #chex #chexmix #cereal #snack #savory #DIY #gift #DIYgift #appetizer
When I was there I cooked in the Betty Crocker test kitchen and learned she is a famous woman who never existed. Guys… Betty Crocker is NOT a real person! My mind was blown. The recipe creations they come up with in that kitchen are delicious. I tried a pumpkin spice cheerio latte AND a cinnamon toast crunch latte when I was there. The cereal was actually blended in to the beverage. So creative!
We even saw the behind the scenes of GM’s food photography studio where they take all of their photography for their recipes and the images that appear on the box’s products.
DIY Chex Party Mix via RDelicious Kitchen @RD_Kitchen #chex #chexmix #cereal #snack #savory #DIY #gift #DIYgift #appetizer
It was interesting to learn that each General Mills brand has their own unique story. Wheat Chex have always been a staple in my pantry. I love the crunchy texture. I often add it to my homemade trail mix.
It’s always so common to do a cookie swap or gift candies during the holiday season, but sometimes it feels like a sugar overload. This year I am packaging up this savory snack mix to pass out this year. I always like making something to pass out to everyone.
If you are still looking for a sweet treat, Chex has got ya covered with a recipe for that too – Muddy Buddies. In my house, we call this “puppy chow”.
Thank you, Chex, General Mills, and the Bell Institute to help make the holiday season a little brighter and cheery for everyone!

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savory chex mix in a white bowl

DIY Chex Party Mix

  • Author: Chef Julie Harrington, RD
  • Yield: 14-16 1x
  • Category: snack

Ingredients

Scale
  • 3 cups corn Chex cereal
  • 3 cups rice Chex cereal
  • 3 cups wheat Chex cereal
  • 1 cup mixed nuts
  • 1 cup garlic-flavored bite-size bagel chips or regular-size bagel chips, broken into 1-inch pieces
  • 6 tablespoons butter
  • 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 1/2 teaspoon seasoned salt
  • 3/4 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon onion powder

Instructions

  1. In a large microwavable bowl, mix cereals, nuts, pretzels, and bagel chips; set aside. In a small microwavable bowl, microwave butter uncovered on High about 40 seconds or until melted. Stir in seasonings. Pour over cereal mixture; stir until evenly coated.
  2. Microwave uncovered on High 5 to 6 minutes, thoroughly stirring every 2 minutes. Spread on paper towels to cool. Store in airtight container. (OR Pre-heat oven to 250°. Put cereal and seasoning mixture into an ungreased roasting pan and bake for 1 hour, stirring every 15 minutes. Spread on paper towels to cool, about 15 minutes.)

Notes

Full recipe credit:
https://www.chex.com/recipes/original-chex-mix/

Photos and content credit:
https://chefjulierd.com

For other variations, try playing around with other spices.
I like to add 1/4 tsp cumin & 1/4 tsp chili powder to the mix.

Keywords: chex mix, snack

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Chef Julie Harrington, RD - Culinary Nutrition Consultant of chefjulierd.com

 

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DIY Chex Party Mix via RDelicious Kitchen @RD_Kitchen #chex #chexmix #cereal #snack #savory #DIY #gift #DIYgift #appetizer
Disclosure: I was provided with travel and accommodations to the General Mills for the #InsideGMI experience. I was not additionally compensated for my time or to write this post. 

Vanilla Maple Yogurt Chia Parfait

Looking for some simple meal prep solutions? Prep these simple Vanilla Maple Chia Yogurt Parfaits ahead of time for busy mornings.
Vanilla Maple Yogurt Chia Parfait via RDelicious Kitchen @RD_Kitchen #yogurt #parfait #chia #breakfast #granola #pumpkin #flax #breakfast
By posting this recipe I am entering a recipe contest sponsored by Nature’s Path and am eligible to win prizes associated with the contest. I was not compensated for my time.
I’m not going to lie, I wasn’t on board with the whole chia pudding trend when it first started circulating the internet. I wasn’t a fan of the texture. After trying it a few more times, it really grew on me. That goes to show that tastes/textures do evolve over time and we have to give foods a 2nd or even 10th chance.
Vanilla Maple Yogurt Chia Parfait via RDelicious Kitchen @RD_Kitchen #yogurt #parfait #chia #breakfast #granola #pumpkin #flax #breakfast
This is a lesson I share with my clients all the time. We have to try new foods just more than once and in a variety of ways. I once hosted a cooking class that just focused on one ingredient – cauliflower. In this class, we cooked cauliflower in 5 different ways. It was interesting to see that all participants had their opinions on which version they enjoyed best. At the end of the day, everyone enjoyed cauliflower in at least one way.

For a while, I was blending my chia pudding to create a creamier consistency, but then the texture of the chia pudding grew on me and I really enjoy it as a breakfast since it keeps me full and satisfied all morning. Chia seeds are rich plant-source of omega-3 fatty acids, that can reduce inflammation.
Vanilla Maple Yogurt Chia Parfait via RDelicious Kitchen @RD_Kitchen #yogurt #parfait #chia #breakfast #granola #pumpkin #flax #breakfast
No parfait isn’t complete without the granola layer. I topped mine with one of my favorites – Nature’s Path Pumpkin Seed + Flax Granola.

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layers of chia pudding, yogurt, and granola in a glass jar

Vanilla Maple Yogurt Chia Parfait

  • Author: Julie @ RDelicious Kitchen
  • Yield: 2

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1/4 cup chia seeds
  • 1 tablespoon maple syrup
  • 1/3 cup unsweetened vanilla almond milk (or milk of choice)
  • 1 (5.3-ounce) container vanilla Greek yogurt
  • 1/2 cup Nature’s Path Pumpkin Seed + Flax Granola

Instructions

  1. In a bowl, whisk together chia seeds, maple syrup, and almond milk. Let sit for at least 30 minutes to thicken.
  2. In 2 small jars, evenly layer chia mixture into each jar. Then evenly layer the vanilla Greek yogurt on top of the chia seed mixture.
  3. Top with Nature’s Path Pumpkin Seed + Flax Granola when ready to eat.

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Chef Julie Harrington, RD - Culinary Nutrition Consultant of chefjulierd.com

 

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Vanilla Maple Yogurt Chia Parfait via RDelicious Kitchen @RD_Kitchen #yogurt #parfait #chia #breakfast #granola #pumpkin #flax #breakfast

Whole Grain Orange Cranberry Bread

Have your house smell like the holiday season when you bake this Whole Grain Orange Cranberry Bread. Bake loaves as holiday gifts that your friends and family will love and they won’t even know it’s lightened up!

Orange cranberry bread on a white serving tray next to an orange half


I absolutely love baking during this time of year. Many gifts I like to give come in the form of food. When I was younger, I used to help my mom bake mini quickbreads to give to our neighbors, teachers, mailman, etc. to spread the holiday cheer. They were always wrapped with a nice bow and a little note attached. Everyone likes a homemade treat to enjoy during the hectic holiday season.


I’ve been playing around with using different types of flours in my baking recipes lately. I have not yet mastered understanding gluten free flours yet (I’m talking to you coconut flour – you dry crumbly mess!), but I am getting better with other whole grain flours.


Do you love baking as much as I do? I try to incorporate more whole grains vs. refined grains into my daily diet and during the holiday season, I do love baking, so why not add some whole grains here too!

The orange-cranberry combo is such a classic and always reminds me of the holiday season. While the holiday season may bring some indulgences with it, you still can make recipes taste indulgent with a healthy twist like this whole grain orange cranberry bread, by switching to whole grains, trimming back on sugar, and adding wholesome fruit.

top shot of healthy cranberry bread next to cranberries and an orange

What is White Whole Wheat Flour?

The look of this recipe may be deceiving when I tell you I used a whole wheat flour. Hmmm.. shouldn’t it be browner? Enter – White WholeWheat Flour. Sounds like a contradiction, right?

White wheat is a different type of wheat that has no major genes for bran color (unlike traditional “red” wheat which has one to three bran color genes). An easy way to think of it is as a sort of albino wheat. The bran of white wheat is not only lighter in color but it’s also milder in flavor, making whole white wheat more appealing to many people accustomed to the taste of refined flour.

The term “white flour” has often been used to mean “refined flour,” so “whole white wheat flour” sounds like a contradiction in terms. But it is simply WHOLE flour – including the bran, germ and endosperm – made from WHITE wheat. – source, Oldways

White whole wheat flour is a whole grain and a much easier solution to add in whole grains into your favorite baking recipes without compromising appearance, taste, and texture.

I’ve noticed in baking white whole wheat flour is not as dense as a regular whole wheat flour, but more of the perfect balance in between of all-purpose flour and whole wheat flour.

healthy cranberry quick bread sliced and ready to serve

Ingredients Needed For Healthy Cranberry Bread

white whole wheat flour

sugar

 salt

 baking powder

 baking soda

Oranges – these are going to be juiced and zested, so skip the store bought

 milk – you can use dairy or plant based, your choice!

Greek yogurt

 eggs

 vanilla extract

cranberries

For the glaze:

orange juice

powdered sugar

two slices of whole grain cranberry bread on a small plate next to the loaf

How To Make Whole Grain Cranberry Orange Bread 

Prep your loaf pan by spraying with non-stick spray or use parchment paper and preheat the oven to 375 degrees. 

In a medium-size mixing bowl sift together the flour, salt, sugar, baking powder, and baking soda. 

Using an electric mixer (hand or stand) combine the orange juice, milk, yogurt, eggs, and vanilla extract. 

Once it’s smooth, add the dry ingredients into the wet and continue mixing.

Fold in the cranberries. 

Pour the batter into the loaf pan and bake until a toothpick comes out clean. This should take about 35 to 40 minutes. 

Once the cranberry bread has finished baking, allow it to cool on a baking rack while you make the glaze. 

Whisk together the sifted powdered sugar and orange juice. Then drizzle on top! You want to be sure the loaf has cooled some or else the glaze will just run off. 

Can I Use Frozen Cranberries?

While fresh cranberries have the best flavor, you can use frozen if that’s what you have. Be sure they are thawed completely before using and try to remove as much excess water as you can.

Health Benefits of Cranberries:

Cranberries naturally contain the flavonoid, proanthocyanidin (PAC) and other polyphenols that have potential health benefits, including reducing the risk of heart disease. Plus, just one cup of fresh cranberries contain 5.1 grams of fiber, 94 mg of potassium, and over 20% of the Daily Value for vitamin C. Nutrition information provided by the Cranberry Institute

Orange Cranberry Bread via RDelicious Kitchen @rdkitchen #wholegrain #orange #cranberry #bread #quickbread #loaf #baking #seasonal #healthy #bakedgoods #holiday #healthyholiday


I caught myself cutting off a piece here and there every time I walked through the kitchen. Get ready friends and family, this Whole Grain Orange Cranberry Bread is going to be delivered to you with a ribbon and a special note from me this holiday season!

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whole grain orange cranberry bread sliced on a white platter

Whole Grain Orange Cranberry Bread

  • Author: Chef Julie Harrington, RD
  • Yield: 812 1x
  • Category: quickbread, holiday

Description

Have your house smell like the holiday season when you bake this Whole Grain Orange Cranberry Bread. Bake loaves as holiday gifts that your friends and family will love and they won’t even know it’s lightened up!


Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 cups white whole wheat flour
  • ⅓ cup sugar
  • ¼ tsp salt
  • 2 tsp baking powder
  • ½ tsp baking soda
  • 2 oranges, juiced and zest (reserving 1 tbsp juice)
  • ½ cup milk
  • 2 tbsp plain Greek yogurt
  • 2 eggs
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • 1½ cups fresh cranberries, chopped
  • For the glaze:
  • 1 tbsp reserved orange juice
  • 1 tbsp powdered sugar, sifted

Instructions

  1. Preheat the oven to 375 degrees F. Spray a loaf pan with cooking spray, set aside.
  2. In a medium bowl, sift together white whole wheat flour, sugar, salt, baking powder, and baking soda.
  3. In a large bowl, with an electric mixer, beat together orange juice, milk, yogurt, eggs, and vanilla extract. Mix dry ingredients into wet ingredients slowly, until just combined. Fold in cranberries.
  4. Bake in the oven for 35-40 minutes, until golden brown and a toothpick inserted in the center, comes out clean.
  5. Let cool on a rack. Meanwhile whisk together the reserved orange juice and powdered sugar. Drizzle on top of the loaf. Slice and enjoy!

Keywords: quickbread, holiday, orange cranberry

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Chef Julie Harrington, RD - Culinary Nutrition Consultant of chefjulierd.com

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Healthy cranberry loaf bread next to cranberries and orange half with text overlay
 

Banana Berry Smoothie

Looking to add more fruits and vegetables in your day? This Banana Berry Smoothie is a simple (and delicious) solution to help you meet the recommended amount of fruits and vegetable each day.
Banana Berry Smoothie - a simple way to increase fruit and vegetable consumption via RDelicious Kitchen @RD_Kitchen
The recommended amount of fruits and vegetables in the Healthy U.S.-Style Eating Pattern, of the 2015-2020  edition of the Dietary Guidelines, is 2 cup-equivalents of fruit and 2½ cup-equivalents of vegetables per day. (source)
Banana Berry Smoothie - a simple way to increase fruit and vegetable consumption via RDelicious Kitchen @RD_Kitchen
Reading those recommendations, it may not seem that hard, but on a regular basis, Americans are not meeting that target goal.

Why not start the day with a smoothie packed with fruits and vegetables? If you’re not used to adding vegetables to a smoothie, this recipe is a great one to start off with. The flavors of the berries and bananas take over and you won’t even know the spinach is even in there!

Once you start feeling a little more comfortable with adding vegetables into your smoothie, start trying new variations. Smoothie aficionados are adding vegetables like cauliflower, kale, cucumber, carrots, and even broccoli to their smoothie mix.
What vegetables do you add to your smoothie? 

Time-saving tip:

Save time in the morning and make smoothie bags. Pre-measure the fruits, veggies, and mix-ins (like chia, flax, peanut butter powder) of your choice in a ziplock bag. Now in the morning, all you have to do is drop the smoothie contents in the blender and add milk (or liquid of choice) for a smoothie ready in under a minute.

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banana berry smoothie on a purple napkin with ingredients

Banana Berry Smoothie

  • Author: Chef Julie Harrington, RD
  • Yield: 1
  • Category: Drink

Description

Looking to add more fruits and vegetables in your day? This Banana Berry Smoothie is a simple (and delicious) solution to help you meet the recommended amount of fruits and vegetable each day.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 1/2 cup milk
  • 1 banana
  • 1/4 cup raspberries
  • 1/4 cup wild blueberries
  • 1 tablespoon chia seeds
  • 1 cup baby spinach
  • water or ice, as needed, for desired consistency

Instructions

  1. In a blender, combine milk, banana, raspberries, blueberries, chia seeds, and spinach. Blend until smooth.
  2. For a thicker consistency, add ice. For a thinner consistency, add water.

Keywords: smoothie, drink, beverage

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Chef Julie Harrington, RD - Culinary Nutrition Consultant of chefjulierd.com

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Banana Berry Smoothie - a simple way to increase fruit and vegetable consumption via RDelicious Kitchen @RD_Kitchen